Tina's Toes

April's Sparkling Birthstone

April, a month that ushers in the beauty of spring, is not only known for its blooming flowers and mild temperatures but also for its exquisite birthstone—the diamond. As the official gem for those born in April, diamonds symbolize purity, strength, and everlasting love, making them a perfect representation of...

Unveiling the Investment Potential of Rubies in 2024

In the dynamic world of investments, where trends come and go, some timeless treasures continue to stand the test of time. One such gemstone that has captivated human fascination for centuries is the Ruby. In 2024, as the global economic landscape evolves, it's worth delving into the investment value of...

March Magic…not Madness! Revealing the Enchantment of Aquamarine, the Mesmerizing Birthstone

Hello, fellow admirers of exquisite jewelry! As we enter the enchanting month of March, we are introduced to a gem that embodies tranquility and sophistication—Aquamarine, the birthstone of this captivating month. Renowned for its captivating blue tones reminiscent of the ocean, Aquamarine boasts a rich history and a plethora of...

Discover the Top 10 Colored Gemstones Ideal for Smart Investments

Engaging in gemstone investments has long been a respected practice for those seeking to diversify their portfolio. Gemstones, prized for their scarcity and enduring charm, have consistently maintained their value across centuries. Notably, the years 2020-2021 witnessed an impressive, almost 50% surge in the worth of colored gemstones, with 2022...

February’s Amethyst, A Radiant Gem for Winter Birthdays

Hey y’all! Can you believe it’s February already? I don’t know about you, but I’m all about celebrating birthdays, especially when they come with a dazzling birthstone like the amethyst. If you’re a February baby, or you know someone who is, get ready to dive into the enchanting world of...

The Timeless Pursuit of Jewelry Collection

Jewelry collecting, an enduring pastime spanning centuries, has captivated the hearts of enthusiasts globally. From the opulent displays of wealth by Indian maharajahs to the regal collections of crown jewels amassed by monarchs throughout history, jewelry has remained an emblem of affluence and influence. Wander through any museum, and the...

Birthstone of January

As the winter winds weave their way through January, nature dons a frosty coat, and the gemstone that mirrors this icy allure is none other than the regal garnet. Embraced as January's birthstone, this fiery gem possesses a captivating history, a kaleidoscope of hues, and a profound symbolism that extends...

A Special Holiday Gift for a Special Lady

Introduction: As the holiday season approaches, the quest for the perfect gift intensifies, especially when it comes to that exceptional lady in your life. Amidst the festive cheer and joyful gatherings, there's an opportunity to transcend the ordinary and present her with a gift that resonates with the magic of...

Christmas Gifts Under $50—Yes, We Have Them! But Hurry

The holiday season is fast approaching, and the hunt for the perfect Christmas gifts is officially on! Whether you're searching for gifts for cherished friends or seeking to express gratitude to your hardworking employees, you don't have to break the bank to find something truly special. We've curated a list...

Wearing Statement Rings…Every Day?

Do you ever ask yourself, "Should I wear a statement ring or an ornate gold ring daily?" Well, read on and see what I think (hint: I wear a statement ring almost every day!) 😊 Introduction: In the world of fashion, the right accessories can speak volumes about your style...

Choose the Perfect Jewelry for Evening Events

The thrill of an upcoming party or evening event is unmatched! The dress is picked, the shoes are ready, and your makeup game is on point. But wait, there's one crucial ingredient left to complete the recipe for a dazzling night - your jewelry. Choosing the right accessories can be...

Is There a Right Way to Wear Rings?

Rings are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry; they can tell a story, symbolize commitment, or simply add a touch of glamour to your outfit. But have you ever wondered if there are specific rules for wearing rings? Should you wear certain gems on particular fingers? In this blog...

Layering Necklaces Is it for You?

Layering your necklaces - it's a trend that's been taking the fashion world by storm. But is it for you? Are you ready to dive into this chic and stylish trend, or do you find yourself wondering if it's a bit too much? Fear not, because we're here to unravel...

Rocking the Right Styles for You!

Earrings are more than just accessories; they're an extension of your personality and style. But with so many earring styles, sizes, and shapes to choose from, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that there's a science (and an art) to wearing earrings that flatter your face shape...

Selecting the Perfect Jewelry for Your Jeans

Jeans are the epitome of casual chic—a timeless fashion staple loved by all for their versatility and comfort. Jeans can be your go-to piece whether you're going for a laid-back look or dressing up for a night out. But what about accessorizing your denim? Finding the right jewelry to complement...

Accessorize Like a Pro: How Much Jewelry to Wear From Day to Night?

“Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” Coco Channel Jewelry has the magical ability to transform any outfit, adding a touch of sparkle, elegance, or edginess to your look. However, the challenge lies in striking the right balance—how much jewelry is too...

Can You Blend Gold and Silver for Chic Style?

The world of fashion is constantly evolving, and one trend that has gained popularity in recent years is the mixing of metals. Traditionally, the rule was to stick to one metal tone for a cohesive look, but fashion rebels have broken this norm, embracing the combination of gold and silver...

The Ultimate Debate: To Match or Not to Match Your Jewelry?

When it comes to accessorizing, one common dilemma that often arises is whether to match your jewelry with your clothes or adopt a more eclectic approach. The question of coordination versus contrast is a subjective one, and the answer lies in your personal style and preferences. In this article, we...

The Evolution of the Sacred Ornament — Mangalsutra

The Mangalsutra, a pendant necklace known as the "auspicious thread," holds immense significance in Hindu weddings. Over the years, it has become a symbol of marital unity and a reflection of evolving fashion trends. The Sacred Thread The concept of a "sacred thread" in Indian marriage ceremonies dates...

Wedding Jewelry

Weddings are a grand celebration in India, filled with rituals and traditions passed down for generations. One of the most important aspects of a wedding is the jewelry worn by both men and women. Jewelry plays a significant role in Indian weddings, not only for its beauty and elegance but...

Gemstone Cutting And Styles - Part Three

The flawless cut of a gemstone enhances the unique characteristics of each gemstone, creating its own unique "signature," making it shine with brilliance. We have looked at the three preferred cuts of colored gemstones and Diamonds. Now, we will look at three more cuts frequently used to create beautiful works...

Gemstone Cutting and Styles -Part Two

Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry. Their vibrant colors and natural beauty help create works of art. In our last post, we explained how cutting each stone brings out its brilliance and enhances its visual appeal and value. There are many different styles of gemstone cuts. In this post,...

Gemstone Cutting and Styles - Part One

Gemstones are a work of nature designed by God. Their true value is only understood by the cutting, which releases the stone's internal fire, creating a mesmerizing sparkle and making a gem so enticing to the human eye. Starting with a rough stone, the cutter will take time to examine...

The Role of Gemstones in Indian Jewelry Making

Gemstones have been an integral part of Indian culture for thousands of years. From ancient times, Indians believed in the healing properties of gemstones, which were widely used in traditional medicine and astrology. Gemstones were also considered a status symbol and used in jewelry making to create elaborate art pieces....

The Role of Women In India’s Jewelry Industry

Women have played an integral role in India’s jewelry industry since its inception, contributing to creating some of the country’s most iconic jewelry designs. This blog will examine women’s historical and contemporary role in Indian jewelry making and how it has evolved over time. Historical Role of Women in Indian...

Exploring Regional Variations in Indian Jewelry Making

India is a land of rich cultural diversity and heritage, and its jewelry-making traditions reflect its colorful history and the influence of different cultures. Jewelry-making is an integral part of Indian culture, and each region has its unique style and technique. Rajasthan, in particular, is known for its exquisite jewelry-making...

The Art of Indian Jewelry: The Role of Craftsmanship

Indian jewelry making is an art form with a rich cultural heritage. From traditional gold and silver jewelry to more contemporary pieces, the craft has evolved and adapted to changing times. In this article, we will explore past and present techniques and gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating and...

The Evolution of Indian Jewelry Design: From Traditional to Modern

Indian jewelry has a rich and diverse history, with designs evolving over time to reflect cultural, social, and political influences. From intricate traditional pieces to modern and minimalist designs, the evolution of Indian jewelry is a fascinating journey through the country's rich cultural heritage. In ancient times, Indian jewelry was...

Indian Jewelry Making and the Colonial Era

The Indian Jewelry making tradition has a rich history that spans centuries, passed down through generations of skilled craftspeople. But the arrival of the colonial powers brought about lasting changes to the traditional techniques, materials, and styles of Indian jewelry. In this article, we will discover the impact of...

Gemstones Rising Values

Several of the jewelers I work with sell loose gemstones wholesale. Recently, they have traveled to places like Sri Lanka, Ethiopia, and Zambia to restock their colored gemstones. They tell me that prices have risen substantially. Gemstone prices had increased by about 50% from March 2020 to mid-2021 while they...

The Mughal Influence on Indian Jewelry Making

When it comes to Indian jewelry, the Mughal Empire left an indelible mark. From the grandeur of the Mughal courts to the intricate designs of their jewelry, the Mughals brought a new level of opulence and refinement to Indian jewelry making. This article delves into the Mughal influence on...

The Origins of Indian Jewelry: Tracing the Roots of a Timeless Tradition

With its timeless beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional craftsmanship, Indian Jewelry has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. From traditional Jewelry Making techniques to the opulent creations of the modern luxury jewelry market, the history of Indian Jewelry is a story that spans centuries. In this article, we explore...

At Gems of Jaipur, we create new settings or update your current jewelry.

This picture was taken on my wedding day. One ring is my engagement ring with a pear-shaped diamond and small round diamonds on the band. The other ring is the wedding band with diamonds set in it two-thirds the way around. I have always loved it. It was simple...

Ruby Baby!

July is the month for Ruby! I couldn’t help but listen to the song, Ruby Baby, by the Drifters as I wrote this post . You can listen to it here while you read. In Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, Ruby is Ratnaraj and means “the King of Gems.” It...

Something New…or…Just Different

Rutile. Have you heard of it? Rutile is a titanium oxide mineral found in rocks throughout the world. But interesting to me, it occurs as needle-shaped crystals in minerals and gemstones. These needles appear black or reddish-brown and sometimes golden in color. The needles might be short or long...

The Crème de la Crème of Pearls

June is the month of pearls. South Sea Pearls are the highest quality you can find! Why are South Sea Pearls so valuable? A great deal of time, effort, and precision is involved in cultivating South Sea Pearls. The pearl farmer must keep the ocean water pure and clean, no...

Valentine's Day Hater

I used to hate Valentin's Day. It was too much angst about a date or a present. It was exhausting. Until I met someone special!

Why Buy Luxury Jewelry?

Why would I spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on high-end luxury jewelry? I am glad you asked this question. Before I answer that question, I think the first question is, why is it so expensive? The primary factor that drives the price of luxury jewelry is the materials used...

Luxury

What is Luxury Jewelry? Luxury is defined as something not essential but is expensive, desirable, or valuable and provides comfort. Luxury is a subjective term used to describe jewelry of the highest level of quality. There are two kinds of jewelry in the fashion and accessory world: fashion jewelry...

A Brief History of Earrings

Earrings and the practice of piercing ears are both incredibly ancient. Earrings originated in Asia. They have been found in archeological digs dating back 7000 years. And interestingly enough, it seems that men predominantly wore earrings. In the form of wall carvings, this archeological evidence suggests that Persian men wore...

Gold

GOLD…The Fashion that is Never Outdated Just about every type of metal has been used for making jewelry and even wood, leather, and cloth. But for heirloom pieces, three metals have withstood the test of time and continue to be the best: gold, silver, and platinum. These 3 metals are...

A Brief History of Sterling Silver

The first evidence of silver mining dates to 3000 B.C. in Turkey and Greece. In archeological digs, silver jewelry has been found in the sarcophagus of royalty, along with gold and gemstones. Pure silver is too soft for making jewelry, so most pieces are made of Sterling Silver. Sterling...

The Sapphire Charm

For centuries, the Sapphire gemstone has been one of the most cherished jewels with many beliefs associated with the stone. Ancient Hebrew beliefs claimed Moses received the ten commandments written on two Sapphire tablets. The ancient Persians believed the earth rested upon a giant Sapphire pedestal and that this stone’s...

Fancy Sapphires

When I first walked into Ali’s store in the Hilton Hotel in Jaipur, the shelves were lined with rows of beautiful beaded necklaces that form works of art. I was mesmerized as I watched the young men, sitting cross-legged on the floor behind the counter, string the beads. They were...

A Long and Winding Road

The Sapphire gem has a long and charming history. Before the written word, the Sapphire was known as a royal gem. The initial creation of a Sapphire gem was polishing the rounded pebbles and crystals that are typical for alluvial deposits. Early lapidaries (a person who cuts and polishes stones)...

Blue Royalty and Rainbows

The Dark Blue Sapphire…Sigh. I think this gemstone is my absolute favorite…well, except for Diamonds. I have a Sapphire ring that Terry gave to me on our 20th anniversary. I have another one he gave me a few years later that is inscribed with “I Love YOU.” I have a...

GREEN

I love the color green …it is my favorite. Green grass, green leaves in the trees, green apples! It's the color of rebirth every spring as the grass springs forth, trees bud new leaves, and the flowers bloom. Dark green, lime green, pale green, it's a beautiful color to wear...